Formation of the nemaline structures in soleus muscle of rats subjected to long-lasting immobilization

We performed the ultrastructural evaluation of presence and of some basic morphometric parameters of nemaline structures (NS) and Z band malformations in the musculus soleus fibres of rats kept in 7 months lasting immobilisation. Disturbances in Z band, leading to NS formation, were observed very often. Also numerous, classically rod-shaped NS were found in analyzed material. We demonstrate, for the first time in literature, that long-lasting hypokinesia induces NS formation. The pictures obtained may suggest successive steps in NS formation and maturation

Control system and measurements of coil actuators parameters for magnetomotive micropump concept

This paper presents an approach to the construction and measurements of electrodynamic and reluctance actuators. Executive elements were used as drives in a novel concept of a magnetomotive micropump. The paper discusses various aspects concerning the designation of parameters, control system, the explanation of physical phenomena, and the optimization of the basic elements for coil units. The conducted work describes the measurement system and the analysis of the derived values. The actuators were compared and the pros/cons of building the conceptual device were highlighted. The best solution to be used in the upcoming work concerning the construction of a magnetomotive micropump was chosen based on measurements, engineering aspects, layout control, and key parameters such as the piston velocity, energy stored in capacitors, and efficiencies

Bull in a China Shop: Alternate Reality Games and Transgressive Fan Play in Social Media Franchises

In this article I examine the role of fan ARGs in Lonelygirl15 (LG15), a video blog that became one of the first social media franchises of YouTube. Eager to explore the narrative possibilities of Internet technologies, its creators set out to provide community-based storytelling that embodied the general spirit of coauthorship. To ensure viral distribution, the videos were shot to evoke the maximum amount of curiosity, teasing their viewers with a seemingly simple plot laden with clues that promised a deeper mystery. While fan creativity was encouraged, the concerns over creating a commercially viable story led to careful management of fan activities and strict definition of the boundaries of the LG15 canon. Intrigued by the mysterious beginnings of the show, some fans created ARG spin-offs to deliver a more engaging experience than the show initially offered. I argue that early fan ARGs became tactics through which fans engaged in transgressive play and negotiated a more meaningful role within the franchise